Unlike humans, dogs do not have the ability to move their jaws laterally. This means they are not designed to chew their food. Their teeth are used to crush and slice food into a manageable size for swallowing. Don’t expect your dog to chew a chicken neck until it is broken down into small pieces before swallowing. Depending on the size of your dog, many will swallow a chicken neck whole or crunch it once before swallowing. This is normal. If, on the other hand, your dog trys to swallow a large piece such as a leg quarter without chewing, this is not normal. Please ensure your pet is not concerned that his food is in jeopardy from another dog or person. Allow your dog privacy while he is eating.

I have noticed my dog is drinking less water daily. Should I be concerned?

No, this is completely expected. Raw Dog Food provides the moisture necessary for digestion. Because kibble has had the water removed, dogs constantly have to drink water in an attempt to maintain proper hydration.

How often should I feed my adult dog?

Unless your dog has a special medical requirement, we recommend that adult dogs are fed once per day. The empty canine stomach is like an accordion containing many folds. Within these folds are glands that assist with proper digestion. It is only when a dog has taken on a substantial meal that the stomach is stretched and the glands are exposed and activated. Feeding a dog more than once per day can lead to inadequate digestion and a constant feeling of hunger. Providing your pet with one substantial meal per day leaves them satisfied.

When is the best time to feed my dog?

You can either vary your dog’s meal time or stick to a schedule. If you consistently feed your pet at the same time everyday, he or she will become conditioned to eat at that time. Your dog will produce strong digestive juices based on the time of day rather than having a reaction to the meal being prepared. The digestive juices are very strong chemicals designed to break down organic tissue. If the food is late, dogs will rid themselves of the acid by vomiting, which is very unpleasant for your pet. If you choose to feed on a schedule, ensure you are consistent.

If you vary the feeding schedule, your pet will produce digestive juices based on seeing the food, rather than the time of day. Many pet owners find it more convenient not to have their dog on a feeding schedule.

Should I feed pork?

Pork is very popular among dog mushers. This is because pork is related to faster muscle growth and faster muscle training. In addition, pork is a very clean meat, meaning it has less metabolites or residues than other meats. People often don’t associate pork with dog food, yet it is a very popular ingredient in many kibble brands.

How do I ensure the proper Calcium: Phosphorous ratio?

Wild dogs do not have the benefit of a lab and chemists yet they are able to thrive on what nature provides. If we feed enough bones (10-15% of the total diet) we can ensure our pets receive the proper minerals in the necessary ratio.

I am concerned about salmonella. Is this a problem for dogs?

Salmonella is not a problem for dogs. The acidity level in the canine stomach is very high, creating a very acidic and unliveable environment for bacteria. Tests of various brands of kibble have shown that many contain salmonella, so, in reality, if your dog is eating kibble, it has already been exposed to salmonella.

When it comes to handling raw chicken, or any other raw meat, common sense is in order. Just like when you prepare chicken for your family, proper sanitation techniques must be used. If you use a separate bowl for thawing the meat, wash the bowl with hot soapy water or put it in the dishwasher. Keep the dog’s food bowl clean by regularly washing it after meal times.

I've noticed my dog pooping less and it turns white. Is this normal?

Yes, this is completely normal for a dog eating a biologically appropriate diet. The dog has less waste because most of the food he is now ingesting is digested and utilized by the body. The meaty bones account for the poop turning white. After a boneless meal (e.g., tripe, beef heart) you will notice the stool will be darker and looser.

Will feeding raw meat make my dog become aggressive and vicious?

This is a myth. There is NO actual relationship between eating raw meat and aggression. Whole, natural, raw food is what dogs ate before the invention of kibble in the 1930′s. Feeding an animal the way nature intended will only add to it’s overall health and mental well-being.

Is there a safe, natural pest and parasite control?

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is an amazing non-toxic, safe, form of pest control. It is made from crushed fossils of freshwater organisms and marine life. DE is deadly to any insect and completely harmless to animals, fish, fowl or food. In fact, DE is an excellent nutritional supplement containing 15 beneficial trace minerals.

Diatomaceous Earth works in two ways- Insects have a waxy outer shell covering their bodies, DE scratches their protective coating, causing them to quickly dehydrate and die. In addition, the insect absorbs some of the material which quickens the process. Rub it into your dog’s fur and bedding to kill fleas, ticks and dust mites. DE is fantastic for dogs that are allergic to mites.

DE added to your pet’s food will safely destroy internal parasites. To kill internal parasites provide DE every second day for one month:

1/2 Teaspoon-Puppies & small dogs (under 10lb);

1 Teaspoon- Puppies and small dogs (10-20lb);

1 Tablespoon- Medium Breeds (20-60 lb);

2 Tablespoons -Large Breeds (60+);

Feeding DE every second day will eliminate whipworms, roundworms, pinworms and hookworms within seven days. Feed DE for 30 days to ensure all developing worms are destroyed as DE will not kill eggs. DE is a safe, natural alternative to chemical pesticides that have been linked to many serious health concerns for pets and their owners. Do not inhale DE.